66 Years of Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness
St Mary’s House of Welcome is a Specialist Access Point for people experiencing homelessness in the heart of Melbourne.
We provide basic essential services to people who are homeless and experiencing disadvantage, severe and persistent mental health issues, and those who are extremely isolated, socially marginalised and are at risk of falling through the gaps.
Many of those who come to St Mary’s House of Welcome for help experience multiple issues such as sleeping rough, substance addiction, poverty, childhood trauma, mental illness, and institutionalisation, all of which have resulted in chronic social and health problems.
Our service model means that anyone who needs help can come to the centre for practical assistance. Whether it’s a meal, a shower and a change of clean clothes or other material aid, or more specialist support such as information, referral to access specialist services, legal support and emergency relief, at St Mary’s House of Welcome, we welcome all those in need.
Our History
St Mary's House of Welcome has been supporting people experiencing homelessness, disadvantage and social isolation in Melbourne for more than 65 years. What began as a simple place of welcome has grown into a vital community hub providing meals, showers, laundry facilities, practical support, advocacy and connection for thousands of people each year.
For many years prior to 1960, men who were homeless and disadvantaged lined up outside St Vincent’s Hall in Fitzroy to receive a sandwich from the Daughters of Charity at lunch time. The Sisters were never satisfied with this make-shift service and longed to have a Centre to which these men could be invited to be served a meal with dignity.
Homelessness Can Happen to Anyone
Each day, St Mary’s House of Welcome opens its doors to around 200 of the most marginalised and isolated people in our community.
Our open-door policy means that anyone who needs help is welcome to come to the centre for practical assistance. This may include a meal, access to a shower and a clean change of clothes, as well as other forms of material aid. We also provide more specialised support, such as information and referrals to specialist services, legal support, housing assistance and emergency relief.
Our services
We provide breakfast, lunch, showers and emergency assistance. While we do not provide accommodation, our community support workers may be able to help you find accommodation. We also have longer-term programs and referral networks. We are open to those in need Monday - Saturday.
Fundraise with us
St Mary’s House of Welcome only receives around 52 percent of its funding from federal, state and local government. By choosing to help fundraise, you are making a real difference to the lives the most marginalised and socially isolated people in our community.
Volunteer with us
Volunteers play a vital role in the functioning of St Mary's House of Welcome, from running our reception area to preparing and serving meals, volunteers ensure that SMHOW continues to be a warm and welcoming space for Melbourne's community in need.
How to donate
You can donate to us directly by bank deposit and you will be receipted the next business day.
Bank Account Name
St Mary's House of Welcome BSB: 633 000
Account number: 209 647 627
Reference: Name and Email address
To donate by phone please contact our Donor Care team on:
03 9417 7985 or via email fundraising@smhow.org.au
Or you can donate online using the button below.
Get in touch
165-169 Brunswick Street
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
PO Box 60
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Hours:
Monday–Friday, 8:30am - 4:00pm
Saturday, 8:15am - 12:00pm
Sunday and Public Holidays - Closed
